Cyber Operation as Use of Force

The internet has changed the game rules in different fields, and use of force is no exception. Increasing number of cyber attacks against states and their ever more sophistication in recent years may suggest a dramatic and uncertain future.This Article, considering the traditional concept of the use of force, will address the question that, whether the existing rules on analog technologies are applicable to modern digital ones. This study will indicate that, to what extent cyber force is reconcilable with jus ad bellum. A key question to be answered is that, whether the use of cyber force can be regarded as a use of force under article 2(4) of the UN Charter. To address these questions, this analysis relies on the interpretation techniques included in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, as well as, the current doctrinal debates regarding cyber force. Finally, the essay will end with a brief consideration of acceptable prospect with respect to regulation of this novel form of coercion. Integrating the existing approaches, the authors will provide their own coherent opinion regarding the use of cyber force.